The pogona Henrylawsoni is known as the smallest pogona of all species. Their name comes from an Australian writer, and they are known as Lawson for short. Although they also have other names such as dwarf bearded dragon, Lawson’s dragon, Rankin’s dragon, or Rankini pogona. In case you are looking for this pogona in English, besides “Lawson’s Bearded Dragon,” you can find it as “Dwarf Bearded Dragon” or “Black Soil.”
Pogona Henrylawsoni Characteristics
- Size: Up to 25-30cm as adults, from head to tail.
- Life expectancy: Up to 10 years in captivity and with proper care.
- Colors: Brown, with shades of gray (light and dark) and yellow.
- Behavior: It is more active and aggressive with other males.
What does a Henrylawsoni pogonia eat?
Henrylawsoni pogonas are omnivorous and eat the same as Vitticeps. The only difference is these species require smaller pieces of food because they are smaller. So, remember, pet stores sell them by size if you feed them with crickets. Otherwise, if you provide them with vegetables or fruits, cut them into smaller pieces so they can eat easily.
Always give them food smaller than the width of their head to avoid digestive problems and the occasional scare (they can’t wait to eat!).
We also have to add calcium and vitamin D3 to their diet so they can grow correctly. In this way, we will have a strong and healthy pogona Henrylawsoni.
Terrarium for Pogona Henrylawsoni
Henrylawsoni pogonas are similar to the Vitticeps but smaller. Because of this, we can use a smaller terrarium (60x45x30), for example. It is a good idea to use a big terrarium to give them more space and not get stressed (up to a specific limit).
You may think cause they are smaller than having several pogonas in the same terrarium. Remember that you can do it as long as you do not put two males together because if the Vitticeps are territorial and aggressive between males, the Henrylawsoni is even more so.
Unlike Vitticeps, Henrylawsoni pogonas spend all day climbing because their size allows them to be much more agile. So don’t hesitate to provide them with branches and rocks to entertain themselves.
Terrarium light
We must remember that it also needs light, like other reptiles. In this case, we will have to use a UV light above its hot spot to help it absorb vitamin D3.
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Substrate
The best substrate for the terrarium, as with other bearded dragon species, is kitchen paper when they are babies. Once they grow, we can put coconut fiber. We must minimize our dependency on the sand. Despite its visually appealing, it could cause health issues if pogona consumes some.
Best Temperature for Pogona Henrylawsoni
The temperature inside the terrarium should be between 24 and 30 degrees. The hot spot must be at 35 degrees, and we must avoid the temperature dropping below 16 degrees at night. Like the vitticeps, it will regulate its temperature by moving around the terrarium.
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Where to buy a Pogona Henrylawsoni?
Unfortunately, this species of pogona is rare in regular pet stores. However, you might have better luck finding a pogona breeder in your country that carries henrylawsoni. If you still need to, you can always go to a reptile fair like morph and see if someone is selling their specimens.
Should I buy a Pogona Henrylawsoni or Vitticeps?
Pogonas henrylawsoni are like having a miniature or young Vitticeps their whole life. Although, in addition to their size, they are much more active, so if you want a pet that does not stop moving (without forgetting that it is a reptile) and climbs wherever it can, it is a better option than a vitticeps. On the other hand, if you want a quiet pet that will be with you for many years, a Vitticeps is better, as the Henrylawsoni, unfortunately, has a life expectancy of up to 10 years.
Suppose someone is interested in this species and wants to buy a pogona Henrylawsoni. In that case, it is mainly because of its small size, either for having little space or wanting to have two specimens in the same terrarium.
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Pogona Henrylawsoni Cost
Are you thinking about adding a Pogona henrylawsoni, also known as a Rankin’s dragon, to your collection of reptiles?
If so, you may be curious about the cost of this small but attractive species.
On average, a Pogona henrylawsoni can range from $150 to $300, depending on various factors. For instance, younger and smaller lizards are cheaper than older, bigger ones.
Additionally, the location where you purchase the lizard can affect the cost. For example, the species may be rarer and difficult to find in some regions, driving the price. Conversely, prices may be more competitive in areas where the species is more abundant.
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Pogona Henrylawsoni Curiosities
- Pogona henrylawsoni, also known as the Rankin’s dragon, is a lizard native to the deserts of Western Australia.
- These species have this name after the Australian poet and writer Henry Lawson.
- Pogona henrylawsoni is a small dragon species growing to an average length of around 30cm (12 inches).
- They are often kept as pets and are prevalent in the reptile trade due to their small size and attractive appearance.
- The coloration of Pogona henrylawsoni can vary depending on the individual and their environment. They are typically light brown or grey, with patches of red or orange on their throat and chest.
- Pogona henrylawsoni are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day and spend their nights sleeping.
- They are omnivores and feed on wild insects, fruits, and vegetables.
- Pogona henrylawsoni are known for their docile nature and can make good pets for those with experience keeping reptiles.
- Like other dragons, Pogona henrylawsoni can regulate their body temperature by basking in the sun or seeking shade.
- Pogona henrylawsoni are popular pets; surprisingly, scarce information about their natural behavior and environment. The IUCN classifies them as a minor concern.